.jpg)
What is the Bay of Islands known for?
The Bay of Islands, a mosaic of over 140 subtropical islands, is famed for its stunning maritime park teeming with abundant marine life and natural wonders. What's more, this hub of historical significance is also home to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand's founding document was signed.
Towns like Kerikeri and Russell offer plenty of fascinating things to do in the Bay of Islands for travellers interested in getting a glimpse into the nation's past. This region also boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery on the North Island, with crystalline waters and lush landscapes.
For those seeking inspiration beyond romantic Bay of Islands activities, be sure to check out our other comprehensive guides on the best things to do in the Bay of Islands region and the surroundings:
When to visit the Bay of Islands
Usually, when planning a campervan road trip around New Zealand, timing is everything. However, when planning your campervan journey through the enchanting Bay of Islands, your timing can be a little more relaxed. The region's sub-tropical climate means you will be greeted with generally good weather year-round, making it an evergreen destination for motorhome adventurers.
Overall, the ideal time to visit in a campervan is arguably during the shoulder seasons – late spring (October to November) and early autumn (March to April). During these months, you'll find the weather pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the outdoors without the peak season crowds. The less congested roads and more available campsites make travelling in a motorhome during these periods both relaxing and enjoyable.
On the other hand, summer (December to February) in the Bay of Islands is vibrant and full of life, with longer days and warmer waters ideal for beach activities and sailing. It's a fantastic time for those who love a bustling atmosphere and don't mind sharing their space with other holidaymakers. However, be prepared for more competition when it comes to booking campervan hire and securing spots in popular campervan parks.
For a more serene experience, winter (June to August) offers its own charm. While it's cooler, the Bay of Islands rarely experiences extreme cold (fondly nicknamed the ‘winterless north’), making it suitable for those who prefer a tranquil winter escape. The region's natural beauty is still on full display, and you might find you have some of the more popular spots almost to yourself.
No matter the season, travelling in a motorhome provides the ultimate flexibility to chase the best weather, experiences and things to do in the Bay of Islands.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Romantic things to do when visiting the Bay of Islands
With its stunning natural beauty and array of iconic Bay of Island activities, this region is a paradise for couples seeking romantic experiences. Whether you're indulging in gourmet dining on a Bay of Islands boat tour, enjoying a glass of wine at the scenic Marsden Estate, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the Paihia beach, this region offers unforgettable moments for every couple. Here's a snapshot of the most romantic things to do in the Bay of Islands:
1. Dine at Marsden Estate
Nestled in the heart of the Bay of Islands, Marsden Estate presents a sublime culinary experience for foodies and lovers of plentiful wine. This renowned winery, just a short drive from Paihia Beach, offers a perfect blend of fine cuisine and picturesque views.
Celebrated for its innovative dishes, Marsden Estate uses fresh, locally sourced produce to create a menu that complements its award-winning wines. Dining on the terrace, shaded by grapevines with a serene view of the lake, gardens, and vineyard, is nothing short of romantic.
The estate’s landscape adds a touch of tranquillity, making it an ideal setting for a long, leisurely lunch. Best of all, campervan travellers will find no problem parking with ample space in the on-site lot, offering easy access to this culinary haven.
2. Take a Romantic Dinner Cruise
If you are looking for a Bay of Islands boat tour, all aboard Darryl’s Dinner Cruise! In Paihia, couples can embark on an enchanting journey along the Waitangi River to the sometimes wild Haruru Falls. The cruise, lasting about two and a half hours, offers a blend of beautiful scenery, abundant birdlife, and historical insights. The highlight is the freshly cooked BBQ meal of Tiger prawns and Green-Lipped mussels, served straight off the grill.
Darryl’s Dinner Cruise, setting sail from Paihia, is easily accessible for those travelling by motorhome. Convenient parking for your campervan is available close to the departure point, ensuring a hassle-free start to your romantic evening on the water.
3. Wander Along Paihia Beach
Paihia Beach, a serene and beautiful stretch of sand, is perfect for couples looking to unwind. Here, you can take a peaceful walk along the shore, enjoy the gentle sea breeze, or simply relax and watch the world go by. Its setting makes it a perfect place to enjoy the Bay of Islands' beautiful weather, whether you're in the water or just sunbathing and enjoying a picnic on the shore.
The beach's proximity to the town center allows couples to easily explore local shops, cafes, and embark on nearby hikes, adding a touch of adventure to your romantic getaway. For those exploring in a campervan, ample parking is available along Marsden Road, providing easy access to the beach and other Paihia attractions.
Top tip: Want something a little more intimate for your romantic getaway? There are other beaches near Paihia Beach worth exploring, like Te Tii Bay, just north of Paihia, and Sullivan’s Beach, which is a bit more secluded. These beaches offer a quieter atmosphere but are still close enough to enjoy the local Paihia attractions.
4. Grab Sweet Treats at Makana Chocolate Shop
Makana Chocolate Confections Shop in the Bay of Islands offers a unique and romantic experience for couples with a sweet tooth. The shop specialises in hand-crafted, gift-quality confections made using the freshest natural ingredients.
One of the key features that makes Makana Chocolate stand out is the opportunity for visitors to watch the chocolate-making process. Set up similarly to a cellar door in a winery, this engaging experience allows you to see the chocolate-making process in action, and (the best part) then to taste samples, including a variety of chocolates, macadamia butter toffee crunch, and more.
Makana Chocolate is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the boutique chocolate-tasting atmosphere, enjoying the chocolates and the overall experience of seeing these sweet treats being made. It's a perfect stop for those looking to add a touch of sweetness to their romantic getaway in the Bay of Islands.
5. Explore the Historic Area of Russell
Russell, located in the Bay of Islands just a short ferry ride from Paihia, offers a rich blend of history, scenic beauty, and romantic Bay of Islands activities, making it an ideal destination for couples looking for romantic things to do in the Bay of Islands.
Renowned for being New Zealand's first European settlement, Russell's charming seaside setting is filled with historic buildings, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries, all contributing to its romantic ambience. One of the must-do activities in Russell is taking a Russell Mini Tour. This guided bus tour provides an intriguing insight into the town's storied past, once known as "the hell hole of the Pacific".
The tour includes visits to historic sites like Pompallier House and Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest existing church. It also takes you to Flagstaff Hill, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Islands and other scenic spots like Tapeka Point and Long Beach. This tour is a great way to learn about the town's significance in New Zealand's history while enjoying its stunning landscapes.
6. Wander around The Old Packhouse
The Old Packhouse Market in Kerikeri, a short 20-minute drive from Paihia Beach, is a must-do market experience in this region, especially for anyone looking for romantic things to do in the Bay of Islands. Open every Saturday from 8 am to 1.30 pm and Sundays from 9 am to 1.30 pm, it offers an indoor and outdoor market experience that operates rain or shine.
The market features a wide range of products, including farm-fresh produce, artisan breads, pastries, delicious street food, and great coffee, all accompanied by music. One of the highlights of the Old Packhouse Market is the opportunity to meet and talk with the growers, producers, or makers about their products.
Additionally, the market is an excellent place to find unique gifts for your Bay of Islands adventure, with a variety of arts and crafts stalls offering a wide range of handmade items. The market has a cash-out facility and provides ample parking, making it convenient for visitors arriving in campervans. With its combination of diverse market offerings and charming setting, it is a worthwhile addition to any travel itinerary through this region.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Where to stay in the Bay of Islands
When planning a romantic getaway to explore the best things to do in the Bay of Islands, selecting the right accommodation is a campervan travel must-do. Staying in a location that provides comfort and easy access to the region’s myriad of attractions is a sure way to enhance your experience. Below, we have listed a few of our favourite campervan-friendly holiday parks that offer not only a place to park but also a range of facilities to make your stay enjoyable.
Bay of Islands Holiday Park
The Bay of Islands Holiday Park, situated in a picturesque setting on 3.1 hectares of land in Haruru, is a mere 5-minute drive from Paihia. Bay of Islands Holiday Park is ideal for campervan travellers due to its spacious sites for campervans and caravans, with both powered and non-powered options available. Its location near the Waitangi River offers a serene environment, perfect for romantic getaways and leisurly afternoon river swims.
If that weren’t enough, the park's range of facilities, including an outdoor pool, wood-fired pizza oven, and laundry facilities, make this a top contender for places to stay in Piahia and the Bay of Islands region.
Paihia Top 10 Holiday Park
Paihia Top 10 Holiday Park, located in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, is an ideal base for exploring the region – a perfect spot to explore the nearby Piahia attractions and relax by Piahia Beach.
This holiday park is nestled in its own tranquil bay near Paihia makes it a perfect retreat for couples. In addition to its scenic waterfront location, it also boasts plenty of modern facilities like communal kitchens and BBQ areas as well as a swimming pool, to enhance your camping experience – a perfect retreat for couples exploring the best things to do in the Bay of Islands. If you are looking for places to stay in Paihia, this is a great option.
Need more romantic holiday inspiration?
For those seeking more romantic holiday ideas in New Zealand beyond the Bay of Islands, you can find a wealth of information on the maui blog. You will find plenty of articles full of suggestions and tips to make your romantic getaway in New Zealand unforgettable. Here are a few of our must-reads for travellers planning a romantic getaway around New Zealand:
Plan your Bay of Islands escape with maui
The Bay of Islands is an iconic New Zealand destination with plenty of romantic activities to enjoy. From dining at Marsden Estate to exploring historic Russell and indulging in sweet treats at Makana Chocolate Shop, there's something for every couple.
Ready to start planning your Bay of Islands escape? You can easily book your maui motorhome online today and pick it up from any maui branch to discover the romantic allure of the Bay of Islands from the comfort and convenience of a motorhome.